Super 14. Day 12. Preview

Friday, April 20, 2007

Pic : NZ referee, Paul Honiss -->

CRUSADERS V HURRICANES
Christchurch, *5.35pm

This grand final rematch will have more highlights than the foggy decider of 2006 in which players crept around the field like they were staring out of Stevie Wonder's glasses. Brilliant Crusaders midfielder Rua Tipoki, who is one of the world's most under-rated backs, replaces injured All Blacks second five Aaron Mauger. His clash with Canes colossus Ma'a Nonu will be a battle between a subtle space-finder and a man with all the finesse of a sledgehammer. Rico Gear is back for Canterbury, who have won 25 straight at Jade Stade. While the Canes have improved rapidly and will be desperate - knowing a loss would end their finals hopes - it's hard to see the champs being on the wrong end of any scoreline for the rest of the tournament. Canes will test them, but the Crusaders will pass.

Crusaders: Leon MacDonald, Rico Gear, Casey Laulala, Rua Tipoki, Caleb Ralph, Daniel Carter, Andrew Ellis, Mose Tuiali'i, Richard McCaw (captain), Kieran Read, Reuben Thorne, Ross Filipo, Ben Franks, Corey Flynn, Wyatt Crockett. Reserves: Scott Hamilton, Stephen Brett, Kevin Senio, Johnny Leo'o, Issac Ross, Campbell Johnstone, Ti'i Paulo.

Hurricanes: Cory Jane, Hosea Gear, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Shannon Paku, Piri Weepu, Alby Mathewson, Rodney So'oialo (captain), Chris Masoe, Jerry Collins, Jason Eaton, Paul Tito/Luke Andrews, Neemia Tialata, Andrew Hore, John Schwalger. Reserves: Tone Kopelani, Anthony Perenise, Andrews/Bernie Upton, Serge Lilo, Jimmy Gopperth, David Smith, Tana Umaga.
Ref: P Honiss (NZ)

BRUMBIES V FORCE
Canberra, *7.40pm

SATURDAY
REDS V CHEETAHS
Brisbane, *3.30pm

CHIEFS V SHARKS
Hamilton, *5.35pm

WARATAHS V HIGHLANDERS
Sydney, *7.40pm

LIONS V BULLS
Johannesburg, *11pm

SUNDAY
STORMERS V BLUES
Cape Town, *1.05am

*********

This story was found at: http://www.rugbyheaven.smh.com.au/articles/2007/04/19/1176697004378.html